Nestled in southeast Washington’s Wine Country, Walla Walla combines rolling vineyard-clad hills, historic architecture, and a vibrant arts and culinary scene that’s hard to beat. With over 130 wineries, a thriving downtown, and plenty of sunshine, it’s a destination that packs both relaxation and discovery into one beautifully walkable area.
Top Things to Do & Places to Go
1. Sip at Standout Wineries
With the highest concentration of wineries in the state, wine tasting is essentially mandatory. Head to unique stops like:
- Alton Wines – Cool, modern vibes with light-bodied, zippy wines that offer a break from bold reds .
- Gramercy Cellars – Nestled in a refurbished warehouse, this is your destination for Bordeaux and Rhône-style blends made with minimal intervention .
- Itä Wines – A cozy, woman-owned gem offering small-batch pours and a personal touch .
- KINHAVEN Winery – Stylish design, fire-pit lounging, and mountain views make this one of the most Instagrammable spots .
- And don’t miss star-power tasting at Pursued by Bear, a downtown spot by actor Kyle MacLachlan—complete with a Twin Peaks-inspired mural and bronze bear statue .
2. Explore Art, History & Culture
- Fort Walla Walla Museum — Step into a 17-building pioneer village and museum housed in a former military fort. It’s rich in regional heritage, complete with living history events .
- Whitman Mission National Historic Site — A touching, historically significant site honoring early missionaries and local Native American history .
- Whitman College Sculpture Walk — A self-guided outdoor art museum featuring 21 remarkable sculptures scattered across a beautiful campus .
- Catch a symphony at Walla Walla Symphony, the oldest continuously operating orchestra west of the Mississippi, performing at Whitman College’s Cordiner Hall .
- The historic Electric Light Works Building, now Gesa Power House Theatre, hosts local plays and events in a beautifully repurposed industrial landmark .
3. Get Out and Explore
- Blue Mountain Lavender Farm is a summer favorite—wander through endless lavender rows and wander where the scent is sweet and photos come easily .
- Frog Hollow Farm offers seasonal u-pick produce, flowers, an adorable farm store, and a chance to meet farm animals—it’s a delight for every age .
- Stretch your legs at Pioneer Park—a stroll-worthy park featuring a duck pond, aviary, pickleball courts, and scenic walking trails .
- For dramatic natural beauty, head just outside the valley to Palouse Falls, a jaw-dropping waterfall about an hour away and well worth the detour .
4. Delicious Eats & Local Vibes
- Wander through the downtown farmers market (May–October) to sample local produce, crafts, and food trucks, then head indoors during winter months .
- Eat smart at places like Hattaway’s on Alder, hailed by Forbes for its Southern-inspired dishes, craft cocktails, and Pacific Northwest flair .
- Explore dive bars and indie cafés too—The Seattle Eater’s weekend guide highlights gems like Passatempo Taverna, The Walls Winery tasting room, and Border Tavern, a real-deal dive with legendary burgers .
Whether you’re a wine aficionado, history buff, foodie, or nature lover, Walla Walla delivers on all fronts. You can spend your mornings picking lavender or hiking, your afternoons in tasting rooms and museums, and your evenings at quirky bars or symphony concerts. It’s a blend of charm, flavor, and scenery that adds up to one unforgettable escape.
